Lucky, a Maltese, was diagnosed with terminal spleen cancer back in February 2012 and was given a survival time of three to twelve months.

Upon receiving the grim diagnosis, Lucky’s mom Wendy Diamond, an entrepreneur and pet lifestyle expert, announced that Lucky was looking for a husband. The wedding, planned for July 12, would serve as a last hurrah for the little Maltese and also help Diamond find a rescue dog to carry on Lucky’s mission of advocating for shelter pets. A bridal shower was held in late May for the bride-to-be.

Diamond is mourning the loss this morning, but she is also choosing to celebrate Lucky’s wonderful 15 years of life.

“Lucky’s life and her legacy of saving the underdog will be celebrated and her mission continued,” Diamond promises. Diamond posted a statement about Lucky’s passing on the Animal Fair website this morning.

“She made me realize how lucky I am, no matter what transpired in my life,” writes Diamond. “I’m beyond grateful for the outpouring of support from friends and strangers who know exactly how much Lucky meant to me.”